Trade trip to firm up Asia’s love of Tassie

A TASMANIAN trade mission to Asia this week will build on the state’s strong brand in the region and further boost our booming export sector, says Premier Will Hodgman.

Mr Hodgman is leading a delegation of Tasmanian business leaders to strengthen the state’s profile in our biggest markets.

Asia’s appetite for the state’s fresh produce and seafood, as well as Tasmania’s expertise in sectors such as renewable energy, was high, he said.

“One of the most exciting things about Tasmania’s growth in exports, which has increased by around 30 per cent-plus over the last year alone — three times … the national average — is the insatiable appetite that the people of Asia have for Tasmania’s fresh products and premium products.

“Asia comprises nine out of the top 10 countries for our export destinations, so it’s really important we continue to have a presence in these countries and to support Tasmanian business and local jobs.”

The trade mission, which will cost an estimated $200,000, will take in major in cities in China, Hong Kong and Malaysia.

Overall, 22 industry representatives from Tasmania are part of the delegation for the mission, which starts tomorrow and runs to September 17. It will cover food and beverage, business and investment and tourism.

The first leg of the mission will include Asia’s most important trade show, Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong, bringing our clean, fresh, high-quality produce to 1300 top buyers and decision makers from more than 76 countries.

The second leg of the mission will run from Sunday to September 17 and include business meetings in Beijing, Shanghai and Hangzhou, including engagements with buyers and importers of Tasmanian products, as well as online trade giant Alibaba.